How to Avoid Getting Seasick on a Cruise

There are few things worse than being stuck nauseous in your cabin on a cruise ship that has more amenities than most towns: We're talking race tracks, slides, shopping, tens of restaurants—the works. But seasickness hits many a cruise ship passenger, and without the right preparations, the disorientation, nausea, and general lack of sea legs can leave you feeling less than excited to head above deck.

Queasiness at sea doesn't mean you should avoid heading out on the water, however. We spoke with two cruise doctors, Dr. Sol Edelstein and Dr. Anell Louwrens, who work with Vanter Cruise Health Services, Inc., which staffs the medical team aboard all Reader's Choice Award winner Crystal Cruise ships, for their tips and tricks to avoid seasickness.

Wait it out

Even if you aren't affected by motion sickness in cars or trains, the motion of the ship could still have you feeling a little off. According to Edelstein and Louwrens, seasickness should pass without any preventative medicine in the first day or two. If you know ahead of time that you're prone to motion sickness or have a chronic medical condition, the two suggested consulting your doctor at home to find out what will work best for your specific case.

Book wisely

While bigger ships like Crystal's rock and roll a lot less because of stabilizers, the motion can still affect passengers. For those looking to be particularly careful in preventing seasickness, book a room on a lower level in the middle of the ship. Those will move a lot less than rooms on the upper levels at the front (bow) or back (stern) of the ship.

Pack some candy

That's right: all things ginger can help motion sickness on land and on sea. From Gin Gins to ginger ale, Edelstein and Louwrens suggested trying some ginger to help with the symptoms. Other in-room remedies include eating regular meals on the ship and snacking on salty crackers to help with the symptoms. While the doctors didn't vet this treatment, many travelers have found success with acupressure wristbands, like Sea-Bands, that alleviate nausea.

Take it easy

When asked what to do when passengers are already feeling the effects of seasickness (which can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and tiredness), the doctors recommended resting in the room with the air conditioning on a cool setting. Avoid watching television or reading, as they can increase symptoms like dizziness and nausea.

Last resort? Pop some pills

Crystal Cruises, like many other cruise lines, has medical staff available 24 hours a day and free seasickness medicine available. If you know you're prone to seasickness, it's better to take medicine like Dramamine at the first sign of rocky seas to keep any symptoms at bay. If you have any questions or concerns, head to the onboard medical staff for advice and seasickness assistance.